Sales at the John Lewis department store chain increased by 3.3% last week compared to the corresponding week last year.

DEPARTMENT STORES

John Lewis sales boosted by warm weather last week

15 May 2018 | by The Retail Bulletin

Trade was boosted by customers buying goods for the warm weather and the royal wedding.

Electrical and home technology sales climbed by 8.5% with standout performances coming from fans as well as the TV category as shoppers bought new televisions in preparation for the World Cup.

Fashion sales rose by 7.4% after sales of menswear and womenswear increased by 10.4% and 9.3% respectively. John Lewis found that customers were taking advantage of its price matches on competitor promotions as they purchased summer clothing items. In addition, it enjoyed a record week for linen garments where sales rose by 108% on the same week last year.

Meanwhile, home sales were down 5.4% although the retailer saw strong sales of royal wedding memorabilia which it expects to continue this week. The outdoor furniture category also performed well.